Phillies bolster their 2025 playoff push, adding Jhoan Duran and Harrison Bader. Can their new super-bullpen overcome starting rotation questions this August?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The dust from the trade deadline has settled, and Dave Dombrowski has made his intentions crystal clear: the Phillies are all-in. With the acquisition of flamethrowing closer Jhoan Duran, the team now boasts one of the most formidable bullpens in baseball and postseason odds that are nearly a lock. But as the Phils head into a weekend series against the Rangers, the exhilarating moves can't completely mask the team's potential Achilles' heel: the health and depth of the starting rotation.
The front office has built a monster in the bullpen, but you can't unleash the monster if the starters can't hand over the lead.
Let's start with the fireworks. Landing Jhoan Duran from the Twins is a seismic move. Giving up top prospects Mick Abel and Eduardo Tait stings, but that's the price for a closer who throws over 100 mph with a 'splinker' that defies physics. Imagine the late innings now: Matt Strahm, Orion Kerkering, and Jhoan Duran. That's a three-headed monster that can shorten games to six innings. Add in the savvy acquisition of defensive stalwart Harrison Bader, and you have a team built to win tight, low-scoring playoff games.
For all the excitement around the bullpen, the elephant in the room remains the starting five. While the top of the rotation is solid, the depth is a legitimate concern for a deep postseason run. The front office's inability to add another reliable starter at the deadline means the pressure is squarely on the current group to stay healthy and perform. Every start feels critical, as one injury could expose the lack of proven depth behind them. This is the gamble the Phillies have made—betting that their elite offense and bullpen can cover for any cracks in the starting foundation.
While the Duran trade grabbed headlines, the front office has been busy fortifying the entire organization. The activation of RHP Joe Ross from the IL provides a much-needed arm, while the recent minor league signings of 1B Brock Vradenburg, RHP Lou Trivino, and RHP Jacob Waguespack show a commitment to building depth. These aren't flashy moves, but they are crucial for navigating the grind of a 162-game season and preparing for potential injuries. Every piece matters, and Dombrowski is ensuring the organizational cupboard is never bare.
Tonight, the focus shifts to the field as the Phils (65-49) open a series in Arlington against the Texas Rangers. It's the first chance to see this re-tooled roster in action, even if the new pieces are still settling in. The Phillies enter as -131 moneyline favorites, a nod to their perceived strength post-deadline. Keep an eye on Brandon Marsh, who will need to continue his strong play, as the team begins the final push towards October. First pitch is at 8:05 p.m. ET.
The blueprint is clear: build an unstoppable bullpen and a deep bench, and hope the top-end starters can carry the load. The final stretch of the season isn't just about winning games; it's about answering that one massive question. Can this formula, a high-wire act of elite relief pitching, conquer October? The journey to find out begins tonight in Texas. It's World Series or bust.
